Appointed Minister De Deportes (Minister of Sports) in 1999.

Grew up in poverty in Paraguay. Family of nine shared a one-room, dirt-floor home.

Father was a greens superintendent and caddie at course in Asuncion.

All five of his brothers became golf professionals. Brother Angel won the 1993 Dominion Open on Korn Ferry Tour.

Raised more than $700,000 for needy patients at hospitals in Asuncion, including victims from the Aug. 1, 2004 fire that claimed nearly 500 lives.

Has often played in events without warming up.